CODE Matriculates 350 Students, Urges Innovation & Ethical Leadership in Digital Education

July 6, 2026

The College of Digital Excellence (CODE) has officially welcomed 350 new students into its academic community during its fourth matriculation ceremony, with Government officials and education leaders urging the new entrants to embrace innovation, discipline and integrity as they prepare for careers in the rapidly evolving digital sector.

The matriculation ceremony, held on Friday, 3 July 2026 at the Choithram International School auditorium along Hill Cut Road in Freetown, attracted Government representatives, education stakeholders, lecturers, parents and supporters who gathered to witness the formal admission of the students into the institution.

Delivering the keynote address, Mayor of Freetown, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, congratulated the matriculants and encouraged them to approach their studies with determination, discipline and a strong work ethic. She reminded the students that lasting success is built through commitment and perseverance rather than shortcuts.

Reflecting on the institution’s growth, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr observed that the College of Digital Excellence has expanded significantly from its early years of enrolling only a small number of students to now admitting 350 matriculants. She described the achievement as a clear indication of the growing demand for digital and technology-focused education in Sierra Leone.

While acknowledging existing challenges, including limited internet access and employment opportunities, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr urged the students to remain resilient and committed to their goals.

She encouraged the new students to cultivate integrity, hard work and perseverance, stressing that those qualities would enable them to overcome obstacles and succeed both academically and professionally.

Highlighting the development priorities of the Freetown City Council, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr said the city continues to focus on climate action, heritage tourism, human capital development and the digital economy, which she described as one of the fastest-growing sectors in the municipality.

She noted that the council has embraced digital transformation by introducing electronic corporate systems and technology-driven public services, including the “Dorti Must Go” sanitation programme that allows residents to register with licensed waste collection providers using their mobile phones.

The Mayor further challenged the matriculants to use the knowledge they acquire at the College of Digital Excellence to become innovators, entrepreneurs and employers capable of contributing to national development.

Earlier, Director of the College of Digital Excellence, Niharika Agnani, described the ceremony as another important milestone in the institution’s efforts to equip young Sierra Leoneans with practical digital skills required in today’s technology-driven world.

According to Niharika Agnani, the college was established to prepare students for emerging opportunities in technology while complementing the broader educational vision of Choithram International School, which promotes innovation, critical thinking and globally competitive education.

She said the institution was founded on the belief that Sierra Leone’s young people possess the talent and potential to become leaders in the digital economy if provided with the right training and opportunities.

Encouraging the students to think beyond simply using technology, Niharika Agnani challenged them to become innovators who develop solutions capable of transforming communities and industries. She also advised them to remain committed to continuous learning, uphold ethical standards and build resilience throughout their academic journey.

Representing the National Council for Technical and Vocational Education, Deputy Accreditation Officer Komba Moiwo described the matriculation as the official beginning of an important educational journey.

Komba Moiwo encouraged the students to attend lectures consistently, participate actively in practical learning sessions and respect both their lecturers and institutional regulations. He also cautioned them against examination malpractice, drug abuse, violence and other behaviours that could jeopardize their academic future.

Drawing lessons from countries such as Malaysia and Singapore, Komba Moiwo noted that sustained investment in education, technology and innovation has been central to their economic transformation. He urged the students to maximize the opportunities available to them and contribute to Sierra Leone’s own development.

Speaking on behalf of the matriculants, Mohammed Bangura expressed appreciation for reaching the milestone despite the personal challenges he had encountered along the way.

He described his admission into the College of Digital Excellence as the beginning of a new chapter, acknowledging that the journey ahead would present challenges but expressing confidence in his determination to overcome them.

The ceremony concluded with the administration of the matriculation oath, officially admitting the 350 students into the College of Digital Excellence to begin their studies in digital technology and related disciplines.

Affiliates, Get Ready: Globe Cup 26 Traffic Is Entering Its Hottest Phase

July 4, 2026

Globe Cup 26 is in full swing, and the tournament has moved into a stage where football traffic becomes more focused, emotional and dependent on timing.

To help partners work with this stage more effectively, 1xPartners, the official affiliate programme of 1xBet, has prepared the Globe Cup 26 Traffic Guide – a practical manual with insights on football traffic, user behaviour, content timing and monetisation during the tournament.

Understanding the Current Stage of the Tournament

Right now, users need fast, clear and relevant content. The strongest angles are no longer broad tournament previews, but sharper stories: who will advance, which player can decide the match, and more.

The 1xPartners manual helps affiliates understand this shift and adapt their campaigns to the current stage of the tournament instead of working with outdated group-stage logic.

Live Moments as Traffic Triggers

During decisive matches, users react instantly. A goal, red card or late equaliser can quickly change interest in a match and create a short but valuable traffic window.

This is where affiliates can use live-hype: short updates, fast reactions and simple match-context posts. The message should be immediate and clear, for example: the favourite is under pressure, or extra time is becoming a real possibility.

Broader Angles Beyond the Winner

At this stage, content focused only on the match winner may be too limited. Some games are difficult to predict, while odds on favourites may not be attractive enough for users.

Affiliates can create more useful content around team to advance, total goals or player-focused outcomes. These formats give more room for analysis and help avoid repetitive “who will win” messaging. Stronger content angles can support better conversion.

The Final Needs Its Own Plan

The final is not just the last match. It is a separate traffic peak. Many casual users who did not follow every round may appear only for the biggest game.

Affiliates should prepare final content in advance: simple finalist analysis, key player stories and easy explanations for users who want to understand the match quickly.

The Guide helps partners plan this stage as a separate campaign, not as another regular matchday. This is important because the final window is short, competitive and highly emotional.

Using Traffic After the Final

One of the biggest mistakes affiliates make is stopping communication after the final whistle. The tournament ends, but the audience can still be redirected.

After tournament, users can move toward club football, new season content or player-club storylines. For example, fans who followed national team stars can be redirected to matches involving their clubs.

Why the Manual Matters

The Globe Cup 26 Traffic is not just a general overview. It is a practical support tool for affiliates who want to understand what works now, what to avoid, and how to use tournament traffic more effectively.

It brings together insights on audience psychology, live content, final-stage planning and post-tournament retention. For new partners, it can become a clear entry point into 1xPartners. For active affiliates, it can help adjust current campaigns while the tournament is still generating strong attention.

Final Takeaway

Globe Cup 26 traffic is not over. It has become more focused, more emotional and more dependent on timing.

The group stage was about frequency. The current stage is about decisive matches, live reactions and stronger narratives. The final will bring another major traffic peak, and the post-final period will show which affiliates can keep the audience.

With the Globe Cup 26 Guide, 1xPartners gives affiliates a practical way to use the remaining tournament traffic and prepare for what comes next.

Register in 1xPartners and get the full guide to monetising Globe Cup 26 traffic with 1xBet.

105 Years of the Communist Party of China: A Century of Transformation and a Vision for Shared Development

July 3, 2026

Official ceremony with a large gold hammer-and-sickle emblem and the dates 1921–2026, surrounded by red banners and officials at a long dais.

In July 2026, China marks the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC), a milestone that invites deep reflection on one of the most remarkable political and economic transformations in modern history. From a nation burdened by poverty, foreign intervention, and internal instability in the early twentieth century, China has emerged as a leading global economic power and an influential actor in international affairs.

The significance of this anniversary extends far beyond China’s borders. It provides an opportunity for the international community to examine how a nation of more than 1.4 billion people has achieved rapid modernization within a relatively short historical period. Over the past 105 years, the Communist Party of China has guided the country through revolutionary struggle, national liberation, economic reconstruction, reform and opening-up, and the pursuit of high-quality development. The result has been a transformation that has reshaped not only China but also the global economy.

When the CPC was founded in 1921, China faced immense challenges. Political fragmentation, foreign domination, economic hardship, and social instability characterized much of the national landscape. The Party emerged with the objective of achieving national independence, promoting social justice, and realizing national rejuvenation. Through decades of struggle and development, it led the Chinese people to the establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, laying the foundation for national sovereignty and sustainable development.

One of the most remarkable achievements under the leadership of the CPC has been the eradication of extreme poverty. According to international development observers, China’s success in lifting hundreds of millions of people out of poverty represents the largest poverty reduction effort in human history. This achievement has made a significant contribution to the global fight against poverty and has provided valuable lessons for developing countries seeking sustainable pathways to development.

China’s economic rise has been equally extraordinary. Through the reform and opening-up policies introduced in the late 1970s, the country embraced market-oriented reforms while maintaining long-term national planning. These policies unleashed productivity, encouraged investment, expanded international trade, and stimulated innovation. Today, China is a global leader in manufacturing, infrastructure development, digital technology, renewable energy, and scientific research. Modern cities, extensive transportation networks, and world-class industrial capabilities stand as visible symbols of this transformation.

Equally important has been China’s commitment to improving the well-being of its people. Investments in education, healthcare, social security, and rural development have contributed to rising living standards and expanded opportunities for millions of citizens. The country’s emphasis on innovation, science, and technology has enabled it to become a major contributor to global technological advancement, particularly in fields such as artificial intelligence, telecommunications, green energy, advanced manufacturing, and space exploration.

The CPC’s development philosophy has increasingly emphasized the concept of people-centered development. Policies aimed at promoting common prosperity, ecological protection, and balanced regional development reflect an effort to ensure that economic growth translates into broader social benefits. China’s commitment to building an ecological civilization further demonstrates its recognition that sustainable development requires harmony between economic progress and environmental stewardship.

As China has grown stronger domestically, it has also become increasingly active internationally. Through initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative, the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), and the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum, whose ministerial meeting concluded successfully in June 2026, China has promoted connectivity, trade, infrastructure development, and people-to-people exchanges. These initiatives have strengthened partnerships across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and beyond.

For many countries in the Global South, China’s development experience offers valuable insights into modernization, poverty reduction, infrastructure development, and institutional capacity building. While every nation must pursue its own development path according to its unique historical, political, and social circumstances, China’s experience demonstrates that sustained leadership, strategic planning, and investment in human capital can produce transformative outcomes.

The CPC’s 105th anniversary also comes at a time when the world faces numerous challenges, including climate change, geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, public health threats, and widening development gaps. In response, China has advanced major international initiatives, including the Global Development Initiative (GDI), the Global Security Initiative (GSI), the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI), and the Global Governance Initiative. Together, these frameworks seek to promote dialogue, cooperation, mutual respect, inclusive development, and a more balanced international order.

As China enters a new stage of modernization, the Communist Party of China continues to pursue the goal of national rejuvenation while emphasizing peaceful development, openness, and international cooperation. Although the future will undoubtedly present new opportunities and challenges, the achievements of the past 105 years demonstrate a remarkable capacity for adaptation, innovation, and long-term strategic vision.

The story of the Communist Party of China is inseparable from the story of modern China. Since its founding in 1921, the CPC has guided the country through revolution, reconstruction, reform, and modernization. Over more than a century, China has experienced profound changes that have reshaped not only the lives of its people but also the global economic and political landscape.

Perhaps the most widely recognized achievement of the CPC has been China’s economic transformation. Since the introduction of reform and opening-up policies in 1978, China has sustained decades of rapid economic growth, lifted hundreds of millions of people out of poverty, and created the world’s largest middle-income population. The scale of this achievement is unprecedented and has contributed significantly to global poverty reduction.

Beyond economic growth, China has invested heavily in infrastructure, education, healthcare, science, technology, and innovation. The world’s largest high-speed railway network has connected cities and rural communities, while breakthroughs in digital technology, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing have positioned China as one of the world’s leading innovation hubs.

As China’s development has accelerated, so too has its contribution to international development. Since its launch in 2013, the Belt and Road Initiative has expanded economic cooperation and infrastructure development across Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America. For many developing countries, China’s experience provides valuable lessons in long-term planning, poverty alleviation, industrialization, and state-led development.

In Africa, China’s engagement has become increasingly significant. Over the past two decades, cooperation in infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, education, trade, and investment has expanded considerably. Through FOCAC, both sides have strengthened their commitment to mutual development and shared prosperity. Increasingly, African leaders, policymakers, and scholars view China not only as a major economic partner but also as an important contributor to South-South cooperation.

Similarly, China’s relations with the Arab world have continued to deepen through expanding trade, investment, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic engagement. The China-Arab States Cooperation Forum has become an important platform for dialogue and collaboration on issues ranging from energy security and technological cooperation to sustainable development.

The global initiatives proposed by China, including the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, the Global Civilization Initiative, and the Global Governance Initiative, reflect its broader vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind. These initiatives emphasize development, peace, mutual respect among civilizations, multilateralism, and international dialogue as essential principles for addressing common global challenges through cooperation rather than confrontation.

Like every major nation, China continues to face significant challenges, including demographic change, environmental sustainability, economic restructuring, technological competition, and an increasingly complex international environment. How it responds to these challenges will help shape the next chapter of its modernization journey.

Nevertheless, the 105th anniversary of the Communist Party of China offers an important opportunity to appreciate the scale of China’s transformation and its expanding contribution to global development. China’s experience demonstrates that modernization can follow different paths and that countries may pursue development models best suited to their own national realities.

As the international community confronts climate change, economic inequality, geopolitical tensions, technological disruption, and other global challenges, international cooperation has become more essential than ever. China’s continued engagement with Africa, the Arab world, and the wider international community will undoubtedly remain an important factor in shaping the future of global development.

The 105-year journey of the Communist Party of China is therefore more than a national story. It is a story of transformation, resilience, visionary leadership, and the pursuit of development. It is also a reminder that in an increasingly interconnected world, progress is most meaningful when it contributes not only to national prosperity but also to the common good of humanity.

IGP Sellu Commits to Implementing UNDP Recommendations on Family Support Unit

July 3, 2026

Three adults pose for a formal presentation: a man in a suit, a woman in a patterned dress, and a uniformed officer holding a printed document in a room with posters in the background.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), through the European Union-funded Spotlight Initiative implemented in partnership with the United Nations, has presented an assessment report on the Family Support Unit (FSU) service provision and capacity gaps to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), William Fayia Sellu, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening access to justice for survivors of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in Sierra Leone.

The report was officially presented on Wednesday, 1 July 2026, during a meeting between representatives of UNDP and the Sierra Leone Police. The assessment forms part of ongoing efforts under the Spotlight Initiative to improve institutional capacity and enhance the delivery of justice services for survivors of SGBV.

Presenting the report, UNDP Gender Analyst, Madam Kadiatu Bachalle Taylor, explained that the Spotlight Initiative is currently supporting interventions in Kailahun, Falaba and Moyamba Districts in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police, the Judiciary and the Ministry of Justice. She noted that the initiative seeks to strengthen key institutions responsible for preventing and responding to sexual and gender-based violence while ensuring survivors receive timely and effective support.

Madam Kadiatu Bachalle Taylor commended officers of the Family Support Unit for their dedication and professionalism, particularly those serving in remote and underserved communities despite facing significant logistical and operational challenges. She emphasized that their commitment continues to play a vital role in protecting vulnerable women, children and other survivors of abuse.

According to her, the assessment was conducted across nine Family Support Unit jurisdictions and identified several critical gaps affecting service delivery. Those include inadequate staffing, limited transportation, insufficient logistics and operational constraints that continue to hinder the Unit’s effectiveness in responding to cases of sexual and gender-based violence.

To address some of those challenges, Madam Kadiatu Bachalle Taylor disclosed that UNDP has procured fourteen motorcycles, laptops, printers and other Information and Communication Technology (ICT) equipment aimed at improving the mobility, efficiency and operational capacity of Family Support Unit personnel across the country.

She further revealed that a comprehensive review of the Family Support Unit’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is currently underway. The review, she explained, is intended to ensure that the procedures adequately respond to emerging forms of gender-based violence, including technology-facilitated offences and crimes occurring in border communities, where new patterns of abuse have increasingly been reported.

Receiving the assessment report, Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu, expressed appreciation to UNDP and its development partners for their continued support to the Sierra Leone Police. He described the Family Support Unit as one of the Force’s most important departments because of its critical responsibility in protecting vulnerable members of society and ensuring justice for survivors of abuse.

The IGP assured the UNDP delegation that Police Management would carefully review the recommendations contained in the assessment report and provide the necessary institutional support to facilitate their implementation. He also pledged to engage the UNDP Resident Representative to accelerate the rollout of the proposed interventions aimed at strengthening the Family Support Unit.

William Fayia Sellu noted that public confidence in the Family Support Unit has steadily improved over the years, resulting in an increase in the number of survivors coming forward to report cases of sexual and gender-based violence to the Police. He stressed that the growing trust placed in the Unit demonstrates the importance of sustained investment in its personnel, logistics and operational capabilities.

He maintained that strengthening the Family Support Unit remains essential to improving access to justice, protecting survivors and ensuring that perpetrators of sexual and gender-based violence are held accountable under the law.

The meeting concluded with the formal presentation of the assessment report, further reinforcing the strong partnership between the Sierra Leone Police and the United Nations Development Programme under the Spotlight Initiative. Both institutions reaffirmed their shared commitment to enhancing institutional capacity, improving justice delivery and strengthening protection mechanisms for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence across Sierra Leone.

SLRDRA, Aries Engineering Complete Five-Day Assessment of Sierra Leone’s Colonial Railway Lines

July 3, 2026

The Sierra Leone Railways Development and Regulatory Authority (SLRDRA), in collaboration with Aries Engineering and Consulting Services, has successfully concluded a five-day field assessment as part of the preparatory work for the development of the National Railway Master Plan aimed at reintroducing Sierra Leone’s national railway system.

The exercise, which ended on 30 June 2026, formed part of the Government’s broader efforts to revive the country’s railway network and establish a modern, efficient and sustainable rail transport system capable of supporting economic growth and national development.

The assessment team visited major towns and communities situated along the colonial-era railway corridor, including Songo, Rotifunk, Bauya Junction, Bo, Gerihun, Kenema and Pendembu. The mission focused on gathering technical, historical and socio-economic information that will inform the preparation of the National Railway Master Plan.

Throughout the five-day exercise, the SLRDRA and Aries Engineering team engaged Paramount Chiefs, Section Chiefs, Town Chiefs, local Government officials, community elders and other key stakeholders. Discussions centered on the historical significance of the railway, the present condition of the abandoned railway infrastructure and public expectations for the proposed restoration project.

Community leaders overwhelmingly welcomed the Government’s initiative, describing the railway as a critical component of Sierra Leone’s transportation history and an important catalyst for economic development. Many recalled that the railway once served as a reliable means of connecting rural communities with major commercial centres, enabling farmers to transport agricultural produce efficiently while supporting trade, commerce and employment across the country.

Stakeholders also highlighted the challenges communities have faced since railway operations ceased, noting that the absence of rail transport has contributed to high transportation costs, limited market access and increased difficulties in moving passengers and goods across the country.

Participants expressed optimism that the restoration of the railway network would significantly reduce transportation costs, improve regional connectivity, expand economic opportunities, create jobs, strengthen agricultural value chains and promote national unity through improved mobility.

In addition to stakeholder consultations, the technical team carried out detailed inspections of former railway alignments, train stations, bridges, embankments and drainage structures. Engineers also collected technical data while documenting areas affected by encroachment, overgrown vegetation and erosion that may require rehabilitation during future construction.

According to SLRDRA, the findings from the field assessment will provide valuable baseline information for the preparation of the National Railway Master Plan and support comprehensive feasibility studies to be undertaken by a reputable international engineering firm.

The completion of the field assessment marks another important milestone in the Government’s efforts to restore Sierra Leone’s railway system, a project expected to strengthen national transportation infrastructure, enhance regional trade, improve access to essential services and contribute to the country’s long-term economic transformation.

Magistrate Hadiru Daboh Denies Bail to 12 Accused Over Kailahun Police Barracks Fire

July 3, 2026

Principal Magistrate of the Eastern Province and Magistrate of Court No. 1 in the Kenema Judicial District, His Worship, Hadiru Daboh, has refused bail to twelve accused persons who made their first appearance before the court on Tuesday, 1 July 2026, in connection with allegations relating to the burning of the Kailahun Police Barracks on 21 June 2026.

The accused persons were arraigned before the court following their arrest on 30 June 2026 at about 7:40 p.m. The matter was brought before the court by the Inspector General of Police under Case No. C/3 519/26.

According to the court charge sheet, the twelve accused persons are Momoh Musa, a 20-year-old student from Investor Mosque, Taryor Street, Freetown; James Ndogbo, an 18-year-old trader from Massaquita Section, Kailahun Town; Jeremeh Sesay, a 29-year-old businessman from Kenewa Village, Kailahun District; Karim Boe, a 30-year-old puppeteer from Jimmy Section, Kailahun Town; Denis Alpha, a 25-year-old commercial motorbike rider from Belebu Section, Kailahun Town; Momoh Kallon, a 33-year-old tailor from Daru Town; Magi Kpulen, a 37-year-old livestock inspector from Massaquita Section, Kailahun Town; Alhaji Kallon, a 28-year-old commercial motorbike rider from Saka Street, Daru Town; Samuel Yorpo, an 18-year-old motorbike rider from Keburang Section, Kailahun Town; Ibrahim Saidu, a 19-year-old motorbike mechanic from Kailahun Town; Momoh Janga, a 21-year-old mason from Dodolor Section, Kailahun Town; and Jesu Baeinba, a 26-year-old commercial motorbike rider from Nyaandehun Village, Kailahun District.

During the proceedings, Principal Magistrate Hadiru Daboh declined to admit any of the accused persons to bail and ordered that they be remanded in custody pending the next hearing of the matter.

The court’s decision followed the first appearance of the accused persons before Magistrate Court No. 1 in Kenema. Although the front page of the charge sheet confirms that the complaint was instituted by the Inspector General of Police, it does not specify the charges or particulars of the alleged offence.

The document instead directs readers to the reverse side of the charge sheet for the statement and particulars of the alleged offence. However, that section was not available for independent review, making it impossible to verify the specific allegations before the court.

Court officials confirmed that the case is linked to the reported burning of the Kailahun Police Barracks on 21 June 2026, an incident that has attracted significant public attention within the district.

The proceedings did not indicate the plea entered by the accused persons and no details were disclosed regarding the evidence presented at that preliminary stage of the case.

With bail refused, all twelve accused persons will remain in custody while police investigations continue and the prosecution prepares its case.

The matter has been adjourned to a later date for further proceedings before Magistrate Court No. 1 in Kenema. The court is expected to continue hearing the case as the judicial process unfolds. Meanwhile, the allegations remain before the court and the accused persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in accordance with the laws of Sierra Leone.

Sierra Leone Records 23% Rise in Aviation Passenger Arrivals, Ranking Third in West & Central Africa

July 3, 2026

Infographic announcing Sierra Leone's 23% growth in aviation passenger arrivals in Q1 2026, with an airplane flying over an airport and a flag.

Sierra Leone has emerged as one of Africa’s strongest-performing tourism destinations after recording a remarkable 23 percent increase in aviation passenger arrivals during the first quarter of 2026, according to the latest World Bank Tourism Watch: June 2026 report.

The report ranks Sierra Leone among the top three performers in Western and Central Africa, behind Chad, which recorded a 25 percent increase, and Cabo Verde with 24 percent. Sierra Leone’s performance reflects growing international confidence in the country’s tourism sector and improving air connectivity.

The World Bank noted that while international tourism continues to recover globally, growth has become increasingly uneven due to geopolitical tensions, rising travel costs, air connectivity disruptions and economic uncertainty. Despite those global challenges, Sierra Leone maintained one of the region’s strongest growth rates in aviation passenger arrivals.

According to the report, Western and Central Africa produced some of the continent’s most encouraging tourism figures during the first quarter of 2026. Chad, Cabo Verde and Sierra Leone led the region with aviation passenger arrival growth of 25 percent, 24 percent and 23 percent respectively.

In contrast, São Tomé and Príncipe recorded a seven percent decline in passenger arrivals, while Gabon and the Republic of Congo each experienced a 15 percent decrease, highlighting the growing disparity in tourism performance across the region.

The World Bank’s analysis uses aviation passenger arrivals as a key indicator of tourism activity, providing insight into international travel demand and destination competitiveness.

Globally, international tourism remained resilient during the first quarter of 2026 despite mounting geopolitical and economic pressures. Approximately 307 million international tourists travelled worldwide during the period, representing a two percent increase compared to the same period in 2025.

However, the report notes that growth slowed toward the end of the quarter following escalating conflict in the Middle East, which disrupted air connectivity, pushed up oil prices and increased transportation costs. Those factors are expected to reduce overall global tourism growth below earlier projections for 2026.

The World Bank observed that travellers are increasingly choosing shorter regional trips over long-haul destinations as uncertainty and higher travel expenses reshape global tourism patterns.

Africa continued to demonstrate resilience, recording an overall four percent increase in international arrivals during the first quarter. North African destinations experienced particularly strong momentum, while Sub-Saharan Africa maintained steady growth throughout the period.

Complementary aviation data cited by the World Bank showed that global passenger traffic increased by approximately five percent year-on-year during the first quarter of 2026, with several African markets, particularly those in West Africa, recording some of the strongest performances worldwide.

The report suggests that Sierra Leone’s strong showing places the country among a growing group of destinations benefiting from increased international travel demand and improved regional connectivity.

While mature tourism markets in Europe and North America continue to dominate global tourism revenues, the World Bank notes that emerging destinations such as Sierra Leone are demonstrating significant potential for sustained growth if supported by continued investment in infrastructure, air transport, hospitality and destination marketing.

The findings provide further evidence that Sierra Leone’s tourism sector is steadily gaining international attention despite global economic headwinds. The country’s 23 percent growth in aviation passenger arrivals positions it as one of the leading tourism growth stories in West and Central Africa during the opening months of 2026 and reflects increasing confidence among international travellers choosing Sierra Leone as a destination.

The ‘Year of Action’ Under the Microscope: Examining President Bio’s Claims on Development and National Unity

July 3, 2026

A man in traditional white attire and a tan hat speaks into a microphone at a formal event, holding a blue magazine titled 'Transforming Sierra Leone' while standing beside a podium with a presidential seal. — President Dr. Julius Maada Bio

President Julius Maada Bio’s Third Presidential Town Hall Meeting at the University of Makeni (UNIMAK) Hall, on Tuesday, 30 June 2026 was more than another public engagement. It was a carefully orchestrated opportunity for the Head of State to present his administration’s achievements, defend its record and reassure Sierra Leoneans that his Government remains committed to inclusive governance, constitutional democracy and national development. However, beyond the speeches, applause and official statistics lies a broader question that deserves continued public scrutiny: how do Government’s claims compare with the everyday realities experienced by citizens?

Held under the theme, “Year of Action”, the forum attracted Cabinet Ministers, local authorities, Paramount Chiefs, Civil Society representatives, students, youth groups, development partners and ordinary residents. The event reflected Government’s increasing reliance on public dialogue as a governance tool. While such engagements promote transparency and accountability in principle, they also provide an opportunity for investigative examination of official claims against measurable outcomes.

Throughout the meeting, President Bio outlined what he described as significant national achievements. He cited expanded educational access for approximately two million children, increased electricity coverage to 36 percent, reductions in maternal and child mortality, declining food inflation, improved road infrastructure and greater investment in human capital development.

Those figures undoubtedly present a picture of progress. Yet they also raise important questions requiring independent verification. Development indicators are meaningful only when supported by accessible data, institutional transparency and measurable improvements in citizens’ daily lives. Many Sierra Leoneans continue to face high living costs, irregular electricity supply, limited employment opportunities and challenges accessing quality healthcare despite Government’s reported investments.

One of the most politically sensitive moments came when President Bio addressed concerns surrounding the constitutional review process. Rejecting allegations that constitutional reforms are intended to extend his tenure, he maintained that the review began under previous administrations and is simply following an established democratic process now before Parliament.

His clarification attempts to counter growing public speculation. However, constitutional reforms in any democracy require not only parliamentary approval but broad public confidence. The credibility of the process will ultimately depend on transparency, extensive public consultation and whether the final document reflects national consensus rather than political interests.

Similarly, the President’s announcement that the long-delayed national population and housing census will finally take place later this year carries significant political and economic implications. Census data influence constituency boundaries, public resource allocation, infrastructure planning and future elections. Given previous controversies surrounding demographic statistics, ensuring an independent, transparent and internationally credible process will be essential in maintaining public trust.

Perhaps the strongest political message delivered during the Town Hall focused on national unity. President Bio repeatedly rejected tribalism and regionalism, insisting that development remains the only language capable of uniting Sierra Leoneans. He defended the inclusiveness of his administration by pointing to appointments made across regional lines and highlighting his long-standing professional relationships with individuals from northern Sierra Leone.

While these statements seek to bridge longstanding political divisions, perceptions of regional imbalance continue to feature prominently in public discourse. Investigative reporting into appointments across Ministries, Agencies and state institutions remains necessary to determine whether recruitment consistently reflects merit, regional balance and constitutional principles.

The economy also featured prominently during the engagement. President Bio acknowledged persistent electricity challenges, attributing them largely to decades of underinvestment, infrastructure vandalism and widespread electricity theft. His Government’s plans to expand Bumbuna’s generation capacity and strengthen transmission infrastructure signal long-term ambitions.

Yet for many businesses and households experiencing daily power outages, the central concern is not future projections but immediate service delivery. Reliable electricity remains fundamental to economic productivity, industrial growth and job creation. Continued monitoring of energy sector investments, project implementation timelines and budget utilization will determine whether these commitments translate into tangible improvements.

Agriculture received renewed attention through the Feed Salone initiative. Government maintains that improving mechanization, research, feeder roads and agricultural subsidies will strengthen food security and reduce import dependence. Those objectives align with national priorities, but questions remain regarding implementation, funding efficiency and measurable impact on domestic food production. Independent assessment of agricultural outputs and rural livelihoods will be necessary to evaluate whether policy ambitions produce lasting results.

On youth empowerment, President Bio acknowledged that Government alone cannot provide employment for every graduate, emphasizing instead the importance of private sector investment and entrepreneurship. While that reflects economic reality, unemployment among young people remains one of Sierra Leone’s most pressing social challenges. Future assessments should examine whether investment policies are generating sufficient quality jobs and whether entrepreneurship programmes produce sustainable businesses rather than short-term interventions.

Healthcare achievements also featured prominently. The President highlighted reductions in maternal and infant mortality, recruitment of healthcare professionals and expanded disease surveillance against the Ebola outbreak affecting parts of the region. Those are encouraging indicators, yet healthcare delivery continues to face shortages of medicines, equipment and qualified personnel in several districts. Measuring health sector performance therefore requires balancing official statistics against conditions experienced in hospitals and community health centres nationwide.

Perhaps the most controversial subject discussed involved drug trafficking and substance abuse. President Bio revealed that over 120 drug-related convictions have been secured, five rehabilitation centres established and stronger international cooperation initiated to combat narcotics trafficking. At the same time, he cautioned against narratives portraying Sierra Leone as a narcotic state, arguing that such perceptions damage investment and the country’s international reputation.

While protecting national image is important, investigative journalism has an equally important responsibility to expose organized crime, examine institutional weaknesses and demand accountability wherever evidence exists. Public confidence is strengthened not by dismissing concerns but by ensuring transparent investigations, effective prosecutions and independent oversight of anti-drug efforts.

The Town Hall concluded with symbolic grants for youth entrepreneurs, the launch of the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s Update Magazine and renewed appeals for unity, transparency and citizen participation.

Ultimately, the Makeni Town Hall demonstrated Government’s willingness to engage directly with citizens. It also reinforced an equally important democratic principle: official statements should not represent the final word on governance. They should instead mark the beginning of deeper public inquiry. In any functioning democracy, development is measured not only by announcements, statistics or political speeches, but by independently verifiable evidence, institutional accountability and the lived experiences of ordinary citizens. The real test of the “Year of Action” will therefore not be the promises made during the Town Hall, but whether those promises withstand public scrutiny in the months and years ahead.

Vice President Wraps Up Successful Hamburg Sustainability Conference with Renewed Global Partnerships

July 3, 2026

Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has concluded a successful participation at the 2026 Hamburg Sustainability Conference (HSC) on Tuesday July 1, 2026 in Germany, where he joined world leaders, policymakers and development partners in addressing some of the most pressing global challenges, including sustainable development, economic resilience and geopolitical instability.

Reflecting on the two-day conference, the Vice President described the engagements as productive and valuable, noting that the forum provided an important opportunity to exchange ideas, strengthen partnerships and promote practical solutions for a more sustainable future.

“I leave Hamburg encouraged by the shared commitment to practical solutions and stronger international cooperation. Sierra Leone will continue to be an active voice in shaping a more resilient and equitable future for countries in the Global South,” Dr. Juldeh Jalloh said.

The Vice President contributed to two high-level discussions during the conference. One focused on advancing child nutrition during the critical first 1,000 days of life, while the other examined the global implications of the Strait of Hormuz crisis. During the latter session, he highlighted the disproportionate impact of geopolitical conflicts on small, import-dependent economies such as Sierra Leone and emphasized the need for more flexible financing mechanisms to help vulnerable countries withstand global economic shocks.

Held in Hamburg, Germany, the conference brought together heads of state, senior Government officials, multilateral development bank presidents and United Nations leaders to discuss issues ranging from climate resilience and sustainable development financing to economic stability and international cooperation.

The Vice President participated alongside distinguished global leaders, including German President, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, World Trade Organization Director-General, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, United Nations Deputy Secretary-General, Amina J. Mohammed, Asian Development Bank President, Masato Kanda and President of the African Development Bank Group, Dr. Sidi Ould Tah, among others.

A key moment of his participation came during the high-level panel titled: “Navigating the Hormuz Crisis: Forging a Collective Response.” Drawing on his experience as a former United Nations governance and security expert for West Africa and the Sahel, Dr. Juldeh Jalloh warned that disruptions to strategic shipping routes have far-reaching consequences for developing nations.

“For the Global South, an oil shock is never just an oil shock. It becomes a food shock, a fiscal shock and ultimately a human development shock,” he stated.

The Vice President called on global financial institutions, including the African Development Bank and the World Bank, to establish a Global South Shock Absorption Facility capable of providing rapid and flexible financing to countries affected by geopolitical crises before they escalate into humanitarian emergencies.

He stressed that the international community must move beyond financing recovery after disasters and instead invest in preventive resilience that protects critical sectors such as health, education, agriculture and infrastructure.

Observers noted that Dr. Juldeh Jalloh’s interventions elevated Sierra Leone’s profile at the conference, positioning the country as a constructive contributor to global policy discussions. His engagements with international leaders and development partners further reinforced Sierra Leone’s growing diplomatic influence and commitment to advancing equitable growth, stronger multilateral cooperation and sustainable development across the Global South.

Man in a white shirt speaks at a podium labeled Hamburg Sustainability Conference, microphone extended toward him. — Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh

ONGA to Host Awojor Fiesta – Salone Jollof Battle This Sunday, Winner Heads to Ghana

July 3, 2026

Sierra Leone’s cherished seasoning brand, ONGA, marketed by Premium Divine Trading Company Limited, is set to host the maiden edition of the ONGA Awojor Fiesta – Salone Jollof Battle Edition on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at the Melian Event Center in Murray Town, Freetown. The event will also serve as the official launch of the new ONGA Powder Spice.

The competition will bring together five shortlisted home cooks from across the country, who will compete for the title of Sierra Leone’s Jollof Champion and the opportunity to represent the country at the Regional ONGA Jollof Battle in Ghana on August 22, 2026, coinciding with the annual celebration of World Jollof Day.

Speaking ahead of the event, Philip Kanu, Marketing Lead at Premium Divine Trading Company Limited, disclosed that Ghana will host the regional competition, bringing together representatives from Sierra Leone, Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, and Côte d’Ivoire.

According to him, the search for Sierra Leone’s representative began with a nationwide call for nominations on ONGA’s official Facebook page, where members of the public were invited to nominate individuals they believed prepared the country’s best Jollof rice. The nomination process lasted nearly three weeks, after which the five contestants with the highest nominations were shortlisted.

The finalists are Kadie Turay from Kambia District and Mary Kargbo, Salamatu Kamara, Phebean Kamara, and Bintu Yie Octobean, all from Freetown.

Kanu explained that the winner of the Salone Jollof Battle, together with a representative nominated by the Chefs Association of Sierra Leone, will represent the country at the regional championship in Ghana. He added that all travel and accommodation expenses for the representatives will be fully covered by the company.

Beyond the competition, Kanu emphasized that the initiative seeks to promote healthy eating, proper nutrition, kitchen hygiene, and excellence in home cooking. “This is more than just a cooking competition. It is about encouraging families to embrace nutritious meals, maintain hygienic kitchens, and promote healthier lifestyles,” he said.

He described the ONGA Awojor Fiesta – Salone Jollof Battle Edition as the foundation of what the company hopes will become a nationally recognized culinary platform that celebrates Sierra Leonean cuisine while strengthening community engagement.

The event will also feature live entertainment, audience engagement activities, and interactive quizzes designed to educate consumers on the various ONGA products available on the market.

Members of the public have been encouraged to attend the event to support their favourite contestants and enjoy a celebration that combines food, culture, and entertainment.

The winner will earn the honour of representing Sierra Leone at the regional ONGA Jollof Battle in Ghana, where contestants from five West African countries will compete for regional recognition.

ONGA, one of Africa’s leading seasoning brands under Promasidor, has over the years organized cooking competitions and food festivals across West Africa to promote culinary creativity, encourage healthy cooking practices, and celebrate local cuisine.

With anticipation building ahead of Sunday’s event, food lovers across Sierra Leone are eagerly awaiting the emergence of a new Jollof champion who will carry the nation’s culinary pride onto the regional stage.